Police seek man for information

Police investigating the sexual assault of a 17-year-old girl in Pirimai last Thursday want to speak with a man they say spoke to the teenage offender a short time before the incident.

"It is not thought that he was in any way involved in the offending but he may have vital information to assist police," inquiry chief Detective Sergeant Emmet Lynch said.

"We would like that person to come forward."

He said the man spoke to the teenager in McGregor Ave as the youth rode by on his bicycle.

"It is thought that this older male resided in McGregor Ave."

Mr Lynch said the man may have additional details which could help police identify and locate the youth.

A computer sketch was released late yesterday.

Mr Lynch said the female victim had been able to provide good detail about her attacker, and police hoped it would spark someone into identifying him.

The young woman was sexually assaulted in Woodhouse Place shortly after exiting an alleyway from Allen Berry Ave.

The incident took place around 11.30 in the morning - something which gave police extra concern as it was in the open and in "broad daylight".

Mr Lynch said the young woman told police the youth had followed her on a black BMX-style bike before approaching and assaulting her.

He said there was a strong likelihood the youth lived in the immediate area.

Police had received several calls in relation to the incident and they were being worked through.

The youth is described as of Maori descent, aged about 15, 1.70 to 1.75m tall and of slight build. He was wearing a black singlet with a distinctive red, yellow and green band around the neck. He was also wearing black knee-length shorts.

The young woman described him as having a "young-sounding voice".

Anyone with information that might lead to identifying the offender is asked to contact Napier Police on 8310700, or the confidential Crimeline, 0800 555 111.